We had to build new stairs inside The Building, as the only stairs connecting the top and bottom floors were a narrow set in the back. The original stairs were torn out years ago; and we adjusted their location in order to accommodate the new plans for the building.

So Marlboro Man and I dropped by this morning to…

Well, walk up the stairs. Hey! They work!

Hi, Marlboro Man. You’re the father of my children. Goodbye.

Up, up we go.

The stairs actually end up on the south side of the building, then you make a turn and cross over to the north side through a doorway. This is where our office will be. The deli will be directly below this. The south side, both upstairs and down, will come soon after…and I’ll keep you posted as that unfolds.

This whole wall is now totally cleaned up, which now matches the downstairs space directly below.

I have lots of other things to update you on: The awning decision, the windows, the interior lighting, and electric, the plumbing…and then there’s the whole matter of the kitchen downstairs. The project has so many different little (some not so little) areas, it’s taken a long while to coordinate and plan.

137 Comments and 26 Replies

Laurie in MN On Friday, August 23 at 1:33 pm

Tina M. On Friday, August 23 at 1:42 pm

The Deli? What Deli?? I just knew you were up to something! Come on, spill it!!!!

Sarahbeth On Friday, August 23 at 1:54 pm

Sneaky sneaky!

Debbie On Friday, August 23 at 5:09 pm

Ree talked about some of their plans in her post All Around The Building April 4, 2013. She mentioned a deli concept on the first floor and a ranch office for family members and home school space upstairs. She mentioned the deli again in Slowly But Surely June 24, 2013.

SandyB On Friday, August 23 at 8:36 pm

That’s what I was gonna say.

Paula P. On Saturday, August 24 at 10:19 am

I remember Ree mentioning the Deli before, but she hasn’t hinted who will be running it. The place is really coming together and can’t wait until it’s completed.

LynneW On Saturday, August 24 at 3:51 pm

I’m with you, Tina! I missed the mentioning also. It seems to me that she hinted, “…maybe a deli…” But then, she’s hinted at lots! I guess I need to pay closer attention.

ann On Friday, August 23 at 5:49 pm

Shea Z On Friday, August 23 at 2:11 pm

Agreed! I’m dying to see what you’ll do to the stairs! I love how wide they are, and the rounded first two steps are glorious! Will you stain them dark and polish them to a high shine? That’s how I envision it

13

Meme On Friday, August 23 at 2:11 pm

It’s going to be beautiful!

14

Susan On Friday, August 23 at 2:13 pm

You tease !!!! hope in the plans there is an old lady railing for going and down those stairs…….

15

Deb C in MT On Friday, August 23 at 2:16 pm

Looks great. Good job you guys.

16

mymaize On Friday, August 23 at 2:20 pm

Yeah, Yeah. We know. You SAID you wanted to show the stairs but we REALLY know that all you wanted to show more pictures of MM’s backside. We got your number Ree!!

17

mymaize On Friday, August 23 at 2:23 pm

Yeah, Yeah. We know you didn’t want to show the stairs. What you REALLY wanted to do was show MM’s backside. We got your number Ree!!

18

Marianne On Friday, August 23 at 2:39 pm

At this stage, please consider a small elevator to expand access to upper levels for all in the future. Handicap accessibility is not just wheelchairs! Stairs are difficult for crutches, sprained ankles, visual impairments, balance disorders, and just plain achey old folks and Bassets! And if you get a sore back, an ele will be delightful to transport computers, files, vacuum, etc. upstairs! You never know when an impairment may affect a loved one either temporarily or permanently.

jane On Friday, August 23 at 5:52 pm

I’m sure they’re ADA compliant. There are plenty of laws in place.

Tulip On Saturday, August 24 at 8:45 am

My maize — my thoughts exactly! ADA compliance is necessary, but even if the public is never meant to go up those stairs, just for family convenience, an elevator is almost essential these days. However, with a big set of stairs like those right in the middle of the place, I can’t imagine the public is expected to stay downstairs. Surely someone has consulted the law and do what’s needed. I hope …

Tulip On Saturday, August 24 at 8:47 am

Oops — I meant Marianne …

Annie On Saturday, August 24 at 10:45 am

I was thinking the very same thing about elevator access. Probably an ADA requirement but you will find it a Godsend when having to transport heavy items. Can you imagine hauling furniture, paper supplies, computer components… and Christmas trees up all those steps? The upper floor may be private and not for the public (office space & a home school area) but you will not regret the extra expence if you haven’t already figured it in to your overall expences & layout.

Mawcee On Saturday, August 24 at 11:29 am

Ditto—–strollers, delivery’s and OLD people like me !!

19

Lyn Smock On Friday, August 23 at 2:41 pm

Progress – you are making such wonderful progress – keep focusing on what has gotten accomplished so far!

20

gail marie On Friday, August 23 at 2:51 pm

A deli huh?? Ok, I’m guessing a bakery, too, and a butcher shop,

21

Lisal On Friday, August 23 at 3:00 pm

Hey!! Did I miss a post?? Don’t think so!! What Deli?? and I agree about the Wrangler shots!!

22

Joanne P. On Friday, August 23 at 3:03 pm

Nice Stairs – nice and wide – roomy.

23

MARIE On Friday, August 23 at 3:06 pm

THOSE STAIRS ARE FANTASTIC – MEANT FOR A BRIDE ON HER FATHER’S ARM THOUGH..JUST SAYIN’

Teresa On Friday, August 23 at 3:51 pm

Can’t hardly wait to see the bldg finished. Looks cool so far! Need to take another drive to Pawhuska and check it out.

30

Monie On Friday, August 23 at 3:52 pm

Phew! I’m so ecstatic to read/see this report on your building!!! I literally gasped and got a lump in my throat reading about the stairs. I know that’s just being silly…but I’ve really fallen in love with this building and the meticulous and wonderful job you and MM are doing in its restoration. I love the stairs. I love how wide they are, and they don’t look too steep, which is great, and I love the way MM is looking at you…just sayin’! Thank you so much for this update. Cannot WAIT for the next…and the next……and t h e n ex t.

Liz On Friday, August 23 at 5:57 pm

Super wonderful to be able to get to the different levels for sure. And what a great stair case that is. It’s not just, straight up the wall. Loving all that glorious brick too. Lots of wonderful space for great big art. Gets me excited thinking of all the possibilities this site can hold and with you and your mans ideas, I’m sure it’s going to be the star of the town. Looking forward to the details.
peace n abundance,
CheyAnne

36

Martha in KS On Friday, August 23 at 5:53 pm

MM’s got a cute face, but when he walks away – OMG! Keep those photos coming.

sweepea On Friday, August 23 at 6:11 pm

i’d like to take the time to personally thank you for the gratuitous MM stair photos. you are such a giver, REE!!!

and nice stairs! ; )

39

Donna On Friday, August 23 at 6:28 pm

Lookin’ good….lookin’ good….oh yeah, the building is coming along nicely too!!!!

Renee On Saturday, August 24 at 1:22 pm

This is too funny?

40

Anna On Friday, August 23 at 6:46 pm

Love that staircase. Making progress!

41

Bonnie M On Friday, August 23 at 7:10 pm

Hi Ree! Thanks for sharing the progress on this lovely building your family is bringing back to life!
When I saw your photos of your Marlboro Man, I knew why you were takin’ em!! You can’t fool us!! Now, you need to go back there, without Ladd, so you can actually see what the stairs look like!
This project is coming along very nicely and you guys are doing a wonderful job with it! I look forward to more photos as time goes by.
Looking forward to Alex’s Surprise Birthday Party on tomorrow’s show! I was up in New Hampshire on Wednesday, visiting my best friend’s wonderful Aunt & Uncle. One of their daughter’s had just driven up to see them. She lives in Florida. I mentioned that she look up one of your recipes and she ‘shouts’, “Pioneer Woman?! I LOVE Pioneer Women. I LOVE it when they show the Ranch, when they’re riding horses, working cattle!! It is the BEST!!” She has several Cowboy friends down in Florida. She and her husband go to the various Ranches for cook outs, and they both love being on the Ranches. Just wanted to say, it’s a small world, and your show is enjoyed by people everywher. But then, you already know that! Just look at your bloggers – we’re from all over the country and other countries as well!
Hope your weekend is a lovely one! Please scratch Charlie, Walter, Pookie Sunshine Bruiser and Hooker behind the ears and give ‘em smooches from me please!
God’s Great Blessings to You, Yours and All Creatures, Great and Small.
xoxo,
~Bon

Alice On Friday, August 23 at 9:17 pm

Can I just stay “THANK YOU!” for always positioning yourself behind MM on the stairs. Because… well, you know…{blushes}.

52

Theresa in Alberta On Friday, August 23 at 10:24 pm

Who knew stars could be so interesting

53

Goosefeathers On Friday, August 23 at 11:19 pm

So exciting to watch the different areas of this renovation come to life. You’ve got so much to deal with I sometimes wonder if you ever feel overwhelmed with all the decisions you have to make. I’m working on a rebuild project and as much as I love it I labor over every detail. But my project is so small compared to your building, easy to connect with. Yet I get the sense you have a strong feel for the building’s real character and it’s just as personal to you. I’m so enjoying what you’re doing and I always look forward to your next installment.

54

Beki On Friday, August 23 at 11:53 pm

A deli sounds great but what will the offices be for? Can’t wait to hear more about the plans for the building.

Kawthar On Saturday, August 24 at 1:32 am

Diane S. in San Diego On Saturday, August 24 at 5:42 am

I hadn’t really checked the page for a while, it’s really coming along beautifully!

58

Kathy On Saturday, August 24 at 7:40 am

I often walk down memory lane with my mom when we talk about the way the downtown area of our home town and the nearest “big” city. Nothing is there anymore. The smaller towns are dying from no business and hence, people moving away and the bigger city has grown but everything went to the mall. I miss the energy those downtown areas possessed, especially on the Friday and Saturday nights when the stores were open, and the individual theaters lit up. Each store had it’s own personality and it was so much fun to see what one store had that another didn’t. Not sure all the modern progress is for the best. Sign….

tcmullinax On Saturday, August 24 at 9:05 am

Decisions, decisions…All apologies if someone has already done a post like this…I never have time to read EVERY comment-and I can’t be the only PWer to think this way…Hmmm…..

tcmullinax On Saturday, August 24 at 9:45 am

I thought of another one…

P Dub’s Pubs & Subs!!!

I have way too much time on my hands…

60

CarelN On Saturday, August 24 at 9:25 am

Wow! Nicely done. The climber is a cutie:).

61

Ana On Saturday, August 24 at 9:25 am

The stairs look great. Can’t wait to visit someday.

62

Richard Taylor from Louisiana On Saturday, August 24 at 10:10 am

First of all, am I the only man on here? I don’t know how you are going to manage a Deli, Homeschool, Food Network, the ranch, and your blog. Something has got to go sooner or later. Don’t spread yourself too thin and end up like all the rest of them Ree. That being said….it looks great!!!!

Sheila Lincicome On Saturday, August 24 at 10:18 am

Linda J. On Saturday, August 24 at 10:20 am

Great to see all the restoration/renovation pics! (Note: Way to sneak in some self serving pics of MM!!!)

Hugs.

69

Patty On Saturday, August 24 at 10:36 am

Looks really nice. I am sure you all can’t wait to get it all done and opened.

70

tricia porter On Saturday, August 24 at 10:43 am

Absolutely gorgeous building You have a good eye Reed, I wish you all the best, Ihave to cancel my cable ,and i dont believe what the food NETWORK DID TO THE WOMAN THAT PAVED THE WAY FOR OTHER FOOD STARS, to have such beautiful dreams as your self, I love you Dear Reed God Bless you and your family, Regards Trish

jane On Saturday, August 24 at 11:08 am

Deanna Haynie On Saturday, August 24 at 10:59 am

Check out my husband’s website erfco.com we are in Oklahoma and I think he could help you out with the building!

73

Tammy from Ca On Saturday, August 24 at 11:19 am

Wow! Where is all this taking place? I would love to come visit next summer when we are passing though OK to get to MO .

74

Shari On Saturday, August 24 at 11:21 am

Awesome! I love remodeling, building, decorating, etc!!! And Marlboro Man’s Wranglers are looking as good as ever. : )

75

Judi Dunham On Saturday, August 24 at 11:23 am

Well, there goes my theory of Ree opening a restaurant. I don’t think there would be a deli in a restaurant. So home furnishings? Western wear? Casino? I GIVE UP!

Not sure why it has to be a secret but I guess Ree has her reasons. It’s just at my age…I may never get to find out. LOL

LOVE THE STAIRS!

76

Dawn Scoular On Saturday, August 24 at 11:24 am

I love old building’s. The store’s they could tell would be endless. I can see why some have mentioned an elevator. Three years ago I was busy helping my dad with our garden when I was attacked by mosquitoes. I ended up in the hospital about two months later with an infection from one of the bits. Was in for nearly a month and in the end got to keep my leg. However I now have difficulties with my leg that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. My point is that you never know what life changing event my happen. So an elevator is not a bad idea, even if you never really use it.
I lived in Oklahoma when I was real young. The town was old and most it empty. But I remember thinking what it looked like in its hay day. I think what your doing is great. But try not to modernize it too much.
Best wishes to your family from mine.

Judi On Saturday, August 24 at 11:43 am

Sorry about your leg! Exactly why we sold our new beautiful home in Texas and moved back to Seattle. You couldn’t touch me for mosquito bites! Not sure about Oklahoma but I would imagine the same; anywhere in the South, I guess.

77

Anne M. On Saturday, August 24 at 11:27 am

Do hope there’s a deli soon, our part of the state needs something! And saving an old building is awesome. Too many times our history gets torn down. Many thanks Tee and family!

78

SaraD On Saturday, August 24 at 11:36 am

Where is that little apartment you were going to add for me to live in? Near the deli. With room service. O:)

Mary On Sunday, August 25 at 7:45 am

Oh what a dream home!!! Love your idea!

79

Nancy A. On Saturday, August 24 at 11:38 am

Now she has teased us with not only the “Deli” but…. the “Kitchen”… Hmmmmmm Is there a restaurant in the making?

80

Dai On Saturday, August 24 at 11:47 am

Your MM is hot!!!! btw, nice staircase…

81

Shawntina Lawson On Saturday, August 24 at 11:50 am

I can’t wait to visit the Deli. It will make for a good drive away from the city.

Victoria On Saturday, August 24 at 11:57 am

Hope the stairs were designed with enough support for moving moving office equipment, etc upstairs.

Really like the design, the base, the landing and a good amount of width in the stairs.

Can’t wait to see how the whole project turns out.

When the kitchen goes in, will you film any of your Food Network shows there?

84

Jacque On Saturday, August 24 at 12:12 pm

YEA!!!!! It looks sooooo good! Beautiful! Great job Ree and MM! I can’t wait to see it finished!!!!!

85

April Hamm On Saturday, August 24 at 12:27 pm

It’s really taking shape…what a wonderful set of stairs!

86

Robin On Saturday, August 24 at 12:32 pm

Hi Ree, I went to interior design school at OSU (go pokes!) and we used to be shown buildings or houses in Stillwater, and then we’d have a metaphorical project that was being done to the building (ex. We toured an old main street building in Stillwater and were told it was being purchased by a record company and we had to turn the whole thing into a studio with office space and a restaurant, etc.) My point here, is that you should tell them about your restoration and they could make it into a project. You could go watch the presentations and literally get 30 different designer’s viewpoints on how to layout and utilize the space, all for the low low price of free! I think that would be an awesome opportunity for the students and you! Let me know if you’re interested and I can refer you to my old professors up there! Love everything you do! -Robin

87

laurah On Saturday, August 24 at 12:49 pm

Glad to see your stairs are not the ‘look and see the floor’ kind and love the large landing.

88

Joni On Saturday, August 24 at 12:58 pm

I still can’t figure out how y’all do all this. Are your days longer in OK?!

Let’s see, a quick recap off the top of my head: you blog [thank you!]; you homeschool 4 kids; you all work a ranch full-time; you have a TV show; you take great care of your family [and pets!] & maintain a happy, healthy marriage; you write cookbooks; you do recipes for Land o’ Lakes; you write children’s books; your kids participate in sports all over the countryside; you travel all over the place for book signings, blogger conventions, TV appearances, etc. And probably a dozen things I’ve forgotten.

And now, this project. This HUGE project! You constantly amaze me. Looking forward to seeing the updates next week!

89

Jackie Hart Gilles On Saturday, August 24 at 1:09 pm

Can’t wait till you get the deli open. Will have to take a Saturday drive up to see it.

90

Carolyn On Saturday, August 24 at 1:13 pm

Everyone is talking about stairs…..what stairs? I see there will be another baby in the picture with buns like that!

91

Charlotte Hunt On Saturday, August 24 at 1:28 pm

This is so exciting. Can’t wait to see it all done… but know it is a work in progress. Good for you guys being such forward thinkers.

92

Janis Ann On Saturday, August 24 at 2:20 pm

Can’t hardly wait for the building to be done as we are going to load up the horses and head West just to see the finished product. Go Ree!

Denise On Saturday, August 24 at 4:10 pm

Charlene Abbott On Saturday, August 24 at 5:28 pm

I enjoy the updates of the building. I like the progress.
There’s an old building in a small town close to us that used to be a pharmacy years ago. I’d love to have that for something but it’s only a dream. It’s right next to the restaurant my daughter is working at right now. That building is being renovated as well. Paneling was pulled off and there was a nice brick wall and some windows they didn’t know about. Interesting! Have a great weekend!

99

Sandy K On Saturday, August 24 at 7:04 pm

Love the stairs, but there sure are a lot of them. I wouldn’t be able to go up that many stairs. Have I been sleeping? Deli and Josh getting married? What’s up?